Is Your Resume Holding You Back? 3 Ways to Take It To The Next Level

Hiring managers are reviewing dozens, if not hundreds, of resumes for each open position. With so many candidates vying for the same job, every detail on your resume matters. A well-crafted resume can be the difference between getting noticed and being overlooked.

At our staffing and recruiting firm, we’ve helped job seekers across Northeast Ohio refine their resumes and increase their chances of landing interviews. We’ve identified three key areas where small improvements can make a big impact, helping you stand out from the competition and showcase your strengths effectively.

1. Showcase Your Impact, Not Just Your Duties

Employers want to understand the value that you bring and how you can impact their organization, not just what you've done in the past. One of the best ways to enhance your resume is by highlighting the impact you've had in previous roles, not just your job responsibilities. This shift from listing duties to showcasing achievements allows you to demonstrate the value you’ve added to past employers.

Enhancement Tip: Focus on quantifiable results. Instead of just listing tasks, emphasize what you achieved. For example, “Increased sales by 15% within the first year by implementing...” or “Streamlined processes that saved the company $20K annually through developing...” These kinds of achievements immediately show hiring managers what you're capable of and how you can bring similar success to their organization.

2. Highlight Both Hard and Soft Skills

Employers are looking for more than just technical skills. While hard skills are essential, soft skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving are equally important. These skills often set candidates apart and demonstrate your ability to thrive in a team, manage projects, or adapt to new challenges.

Enhancement Tip: Add a section to your resume dedicated to your core competencies, including both technical (hard) skills and interpersonal (soft) skills. Instead of simply stating “good communicator,” provide examples that show how you’ve used that skill, such as “Successfully led a team of 5 to meet deadlines and exceed targets.” This gives hiring managers a more complete picture of what you bring to the role.

3. Strengthen Your Online Presence and LinkedIn Profile

Your resume doc.x or pdf file isn’t the only place where employers look for information about you. Many hiring managers will check your LinkedIn profile to learn more about your professional background and assess whether your online presence aligns with your resume. A well-optimized LinkedIn profile can complement your resume and even give you an edge over other candidates.

Enhancement Tip: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and mirrors the key information on your resume. Add a professional headshot, write a compelling summary that highlights your strengths and career goals, and include any recommendations or endorsements that showcase your abilities. A strong LinkedIn profile will make you more visible to recruiters and hiring managers, giving them another way to learn about your qualifications.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Results

Enhancing your resume doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on your impact, showcasing both hard and soft skills, and optimizing your online presence, you’ll be able to present a more well-rounded, compelling picture of your (unique!) qualifications

Ready to take your job search to the next level? Click here to explore our open roles!